GENERIC NAME: FLUNISOLIDE - INHALATION (flew-NISS-oh-lide)
BRAND NAME(S): Aerobid
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
WARNING: If you have switched from an oral corticosteroid (e.g., prednisone tablets) to this inhaler within the past 12 months, or if you have been using this product in higher-than-usual doses and suddenly stop using it, your body may not produce enough natural steroids. You may need to start taking additional corticosteroids, especially if your body is stressed due to a major infection, surgery or injury. Deaths have sometimes occurred during such stresses, due to low steroid levels. Tell your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur: unusual weakness, sudden weight loss, dizziness. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and inform them that you use (or have used) any type of corticosteroid. Carry a warning card or medical ID bracelet that identifies your need for oral corticosteroids during times of stress as noted. Consult your doctor or pharmacist now for specific advice regarding stress situations; you may need to carry a supply of corticosteroid tablets as a precaution.
USES: This medication is a corticosteroid which acts in the lungs to reduce inflammation. It is used in the treatment of chronic asthma.
HOW TO USE: This medication is inhaled into the lungs using a special inhaler device. To use the inhaler, shake the canister for a minute. Take a drink of water to moisten the throat. Place the inhaler mouthpiece into your mouth over the tongue. Close your lips tightly around the mouthpiece. Tilt your head back slightly. Depress the inhaler while taking a slow deep breath for 5 seconds. Hold your breath for 10 seconds to enable the drug to penetrate the lungs. Slowly breathe out. If two inhalations are prescribed, wait at least one minute between inhalations. If using other inhalers, wait several minutes between the use of the inhalers and use this one (the corticosteroid) last. To prevent dry mouth and hoarseness, rinse your mouth after each use. Do not swallow the rinse solution. It is recommended you use a spacer/holding chamber. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about this. This medication is best used at even intervals throughout the day and night. It is usually used once in the morning and evening. Do not increase your dose, use this more frequently or stop using this medication without first consulting your doctor.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Asthma - Read about asthma signs and symptoms, statistics, medication, inhalers, and management, and triggers (or what causes an attack). Get the facts about asthma in children and exercise-induced asthma.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Interactive Slideshows